The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have condemned the reported threat by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television, calling on President Bola Tinubu to order an immediate and transparent investigation.
In a joint statement, the groups urged the federal government to ensure the safety and security of Okinbaloye and other journalists facing threats for carrying out their duties, warning that press freedom in Nigeria is in a “downward spiral” marked by intimidation, harassment, and attacks.
The condemnation follows remarks by Wike during a media chat last Friday, where he expressed anger over comments made by Okinbaloye on Politics Today, saying he was “surprised” and would have “shot him” if it were possible to break through the television screen. The presenter raised concerns that the 2027 elections could be dominated by a single political party, citing internal issues within the African Democratic Congress.
Reacting, NGE and SERAP said public officials are subject to scrutiny and criticism, stressing that Okinbaloye, like every citizen, has the right to freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive, and impart information on matters of public interest.
The organisations noted that although Wike later clarified his statement, such threats should never have been made, warning that they contribute to a climate of fear aimed at discouraging public interest journalism and undermining democratic accountability.
They further criticised what they described as the persistent failure of Nigerian authorities to investigate and prosecute attacks against journalists, saying the trend has emboldened perpetrators and fostered a culture of impunity.
The statement jointly signed by NGE President Eze Anaba, the General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, and SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare read in part: “The right to freedom of expression applies to all kinds of information and ideas, including those that may shock, offend, or disturb.
“Any form of effort to coerce the holding or not holding of any opinion is prohibited.
“Although Mr Wike has sought to clarify his remarks, the threat should never have been made in the first place. The objective of those who threaten journalists remains the same: to chill public interest reporting by increasing the risks faced by journalists. Such conduct undermines press freedom and democratic accountability. This must stop.
